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Archives for September 2012

Capsular Contracture From Breast Implants

September 28, 2012 by

The below question is answered by Charleston breast surgeon Dr. James Craigie of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

I have had two failed breast reconstructions using an implant. First was placed too high up, and the second one anchored down with abdominal advancement flap. After 5 months the implant began to disappear. MRI proved it was not ruptured. Doctors were not worried  and I was told to stop worrying about it, so I continued on with my life. I then developed chest pain, muscle/ligament/joint/back pain and breathlessness when climbing hills or stairs. Eventually after 2 and a half years, I referred back to PS who told me I had a chest wall concavity due to the implant being forced inwardly under pressure from the scar tissue and muscle. The implant size was 770cc. Will this concavity “spring” back into place or will I have it for the rest of my life? Also what effects might this have on my body if my frame is being pushed out of alignment?

Hello,

Thanks for your question. I’m sorry you have had these problems. We see people whose chest wall and ribs become indented due to implants quite frequently. The problem develops because body reacts to the implant by making scar. We call this capsular contracture and in some people it can exert tremendous force due to constant pressure. The process will persist as long as you have an implant. We have not performed scientific studies to prove the ribs return to normal but we have treated hundreds of patients with this type of problem by removing the implants and replacing them with their own tissue with out taking their muscles. This has solved their problems related to implants permanently. I hope this answers your question, let me know

James Craigie, MD
Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

Get answers to your questions about breast reconstruction straight from our surgical team! Submit your questions here today.

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , , ,

All About Shem Creek

September 26, 2012 by

Shem Creek is one of Charleston’s most exciting and unique places. Both boating and seafood aficionados have plenty to do here thanks to Shem Creek’s spectacular waterfront dining. With fresh seafood coming in daily from the locally parked shrimp boats, our patients are sure to get the best seafood in town.

Though it’s lined with restaurants on both shores, Shem Creek is more than just great food. Here are our absolute favorites places to dine, drink, relax, and take in the natural beauty of this Charleston  gem:

Page’s Okra Grill: The Page family established The Okra Grill in 2006 with the intent to provide the best Southern food in the Charleston area. With a specials menu that changes daily—from homemade meatloaf, to Southern fried pork chops, and grilled beef calves with liver—Page’s Okra Grill gives every patron a true taste of Lowcountry dining.

  • Water’s Edge Restaurant: Water’s Edge is located on scenic Shem Creek and offers both waterfront and outside dining where guests can view the local fish and shrimp boats unloading their daily catches. This spectacular restaurant features a diverse menu of gourmet seafood, juicy burgers, prime rib, and many more Lowcountry favorites. Enjoy a delicious meal paired with one of their 450 wines from around the world to top off your memorable outing in Shem Creek.
  • Shem Creek Inn: On the waterfront overlooking the tranquil Shem Creek lies this popular hotel. Restaurants, shopping, and bountiful wildlife surround the hotel known for its quaint views and harbor-side activities. Each morning of your stay, you can watch the shrimp and fishing boats make their way out to the Charleston Harbor, or unwind by the waterfront pool and watch the pelican fly overhead.
  • Shem Creek Shrimping Harbor and Crab Bank Island Preserve Saltwater Tour: If you’re looking for a little adventure during your stay at Shem Creek, look no further than this kayak tour. Paddle down historic Shem Creek among the shrimp boats, then journey out to Crab Bank. This preserve is home to thousands of nesting shorebirds, including the Wilsons Plover and Eastern Brown Pelicans. Frequented by dolphin and sometimes manatee, this tour is popular among wildlife enthusiasts. It also includes incredible views of the historic Charleston Harbor, Castle Pinckney, Ft. Sumter, the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, and Patriots Point.

Where is your favorite place to go when you visit Shem Creek?

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Rekindle the Romance

September 24, 2012 by

At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction,  we know every day is a gift, and nothing makes life more meaningful than time spent with the ones we love. It’s easy to get lost in the bustle of daily life, though, and let the moments and feelings we cherish go uncelebrated.

Luckily, we’ve found some tried-and-true tips to keep the romantic fires blazing in our own love lives. Here are some simple ways you can show your partner they are loved and appreciated, and reignite the romance:

Plan a date-night: Nothing fans the flame more than an old-fashioned date. Make time every week to hit the town or stay in for a movie-night with your main squeeze. It’s important to reserve time to relish each other’s company, and dates keep even long-term relationships feeling young and fresh.

  • Choose your battles: Sure, even the most passionate, loving couples have their ups and downs. Keep in mind that not every disagreement is worthy of a full-blown discussion, and when they do merit one, always be considerate and willing to listen to the other side. Arguments can have lasting effects on relationships, so be sure that even when you disagree, you do so from a willingness to understand your partner.
  • Show each other off: Change up the scenery, and view each other in new contexts and situations. Sometimes it’s necessary to get out of your comfort zone to appreciate what you have. Next time you’re at an office party or social gathering, give each other some space to mingle, and steal glances from across the room. You’ll quickly see the traits that drew you to each other all those years ago.
  • Be spontaneous: Surprise your mate with small gifts—a favorite dessert, breakfast in bed, or a little note on the fridge.  Maybe just steal a kiss when they least expect it. Whatever you do, remember these small gestures of affection can leave a big impact, especially in long-term relationships.

What are some ways you fan the romantic flame?

Filed Under: Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , , ,

Complications From Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer

September 21, 2012 by

The below question is answered by Richard M. Kline Jr., M.D. of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

I am recovering from a DIEP flap reconstruction and lymph node transfer. I had breast cancer when I was very young and have had lymphedema for 25 years. I was so happy to hear that there was a surgery that possibly could correct the swelling in my arm that I jumped on it with out really researching. I am two weeks into my recovery and I have noticed swelling in my leg and groin. The groin I think is normal for a surgery site. However, the swelling in my leg Im afraid is the onset of lymphedema. I would appreciate any information you could share with me on this .

Hello,

Sorry you are having problems.

As your surgeon probably explained to you prior to surgery, vascularized lymph node transfer is experimental surgery, and no one really knows how often it works, if at all, and what the complication rates are.

As your surgeon also probably explained, lower extremity lymphedema is a potential risk of the node harvest. We strictly limit our node dissection to the area lateral to the superficial inferior epigastric vein and superior to the inguinal ligament, and have thus far had no problems with lower extremity lymphedema developing after the procedure. You may wish to consult with your surgeon about having bioimpedance analysis of your affected lower extremity performed to determine whether early lymphedema is actually present. If it is, then prompt institution of treatment may be advisable.

Richard Kline

Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

Get answers to your questions about breast reconstruction straight from our surgical team! Submit your questions here today.

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Small Things Add Up: How to Stick to Your Diet

September 19, 2012 by

Image Taken From: www.womensonlinemagazine.com

Weight gain is often the cumulative effect of a series of small decisions: do you take the stairs or the elevator? Do you walk to the corner store, or drive? Sit in front of the TV, or walk the dog? Fortunately for those who want to stick to a diet, the small decisions we make every day can help us to reach our goals without feeling as though our lives have been dominated by the desire to lose weight. Here are some ways you can focus on the small things that have a huge effect on the success of your diet:

Mentally prepare yourself every day: When you wake up in the morning, consciously think about your diet. Before you even enter the kitchen, remember your goals, and mindfully select food that will fuel your body for the day. Whole grains and fruits are the perfect way to get your metabolism going without spiking your blood sugar levels.

  • Enjoy every bite: Take time during your meals to fully chew and savor every bite. Even if you are only eating your dish because you know it’s good for you, remember it’s healthy for a reason—those vitamins and minerals help your body perform the functions that sustain your very life! Rejoice in your body’s incredible machinery, and give it the fuel it deserves.
  • Stay accountable: Even if it pains you, step on the scale every day. It keeps you honest, and reminds you that the decisions you make throughout the day are leading you to your goal. You can even keep a food diary to chart your progress and keep track of the foods you eat throughout the day.
  • Regularize your eating: Eat at the same time every day, and plan meals that are both nutritious and help you feel sated. When your body gets in the habit of an eating schedule, you reduce hunger and the midday temptation to snack too much.
  • Exercise with a friend: Accountability can be the deciding factor in whether or not a diet succeeds. Plus, exercise is much more enjoyable when in good company.
  • Take the stairs: Remember, everything matters, and small adjustments make a world of difference when it comes to losing weight. Every opportunity you see to burn more calories or eat healthier, take them.  Get acquainted with the stairs, and be sure to break up the hours at the desk with a stroll to the water fountain, or just stand up for a few minutes. Really, anything burns more calories than sitting.

Do you have the secret to a successful diet? Feel free to share in the comments section below!

Filed Under: Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Charleston’s Most Romantic Venues for Tying the Knot

September 17, 2012 by

Image Above Taken From: www.Huffingtonpost.com

With Charleston’s breathtaking waterfronts, rolling countryside, historic plantations and home, and lush parks, it is no wonder the city is such a hub for celebrity weddings! On September 9, 2012, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds exchanged vows at Boone Hall Plantation, the same house featured in the film The Notebook.

Last year, Eva Amurri, Susan Sarandon’s daughter, married Kyle Martino at the Confederate Home event space in Charleston. Even Emily Maynard, the most recent Bachelorette, is purportedly planning her nuptials to reside in the historic city!

If you or your loved ones are looking for a celebrity-worthy wedding, look no further. We’ve compiled Charleston’s most stunning wedding venues right here!

  • Boone Hall Plantation: Turns out, the Boone Hall Plantation in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina—where Lively and Reynolds held their intimate ceremony—is the mansion where Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams first fell in love as Noah and Ally in the 2004 film The Notebook. Other than its silver screen pedigree, the Boone Hall sets the scene for the perfect plantation romance with its famous Avenue of Oaks, nearly a mile of 268-year-old giant oaks draped with Spanish moss that lead to the sprawling house. Over 300 years ago, the brick and tile were handmade for this 18th century plantation and can still be seen, as well as the cotton gin house, circular smoke house, and in the formal gardens’ original walls and walks.
  • Confederate Home: The 127-year-old Confederate Home and College offers a unique historic location in downtown Charleston perfect for the big day. The restoration of this landmark features two formal adjoining drawing rooms on the second floor furnished with period furniture and a stately columned piazza which overlooks the landscaped garden. Each drawing room has a fireplace and separate doors for access—the perfect touches for an intimate, romantic occasion.
  • Legare Waring House: For a banquet of traditional grace, explore this 1840s home that has showcased legendary parties attended by governors, international dignitaries, and blushing brides alike. Recently redecorated with characteristic Charleston colors and furnishings, the grandeur of this home, accented by an avenue of majestic, moss-draped oak trees, is truly timeless.
  • Patriots Point Pavilion: The Pavilion at Patriots Point is one of the most captivating and sought-after event venues in Charleston. With rapturous views of the harbor, the luxury tent sits on the 18th hole with the Harbor just beyond for a truly contemporary, yet classic venue.
  • William Aiken House: One of Charleston’s most renowned venues, The William Aiken House has become the centerpiece for the most memorable affairs. This majestic estate has been fully restored to its 1811 condition so that bridal parties and guests can fully relish the rare combination of 19th century elegance and 21st century refinement.

Have you had the chance to explore these enchanting venues? Tell us about it in the comments section below!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Ask The Doctor: Guest, Dr. Lisa Baron Answers Your Question on Breast Health

September 14, 2012 by

Today we are pleased to present Dr Lisa Baron, of The Charleston Breast Center as a guest author on this editon of, Ask The Doctor.  See below as Dr. Baron answers a question submitted to our site.

I really need advice.  I recently relocated to Charleston, SC & just saw a new oncologist.  When I lived in CT, my breast surgeon would do an annual digital mammogram & breast ultrasound since I have dense breasts.  I’m pretty sure that my former surgeon had said that there are new guidelines that state that if breasts are dense, a breast ultrasound should be done also.  My new oncologist in SC is only planning on doing an annual digital mammogram. Has anyone heard of these new guidelines stating that a breast ultrasound should be done in addition to a mammogram if breasts are dense?  I also have very cystic breasts with a density of 50-75%.

I think the confusion regarding additional testing with mammography for dense breast tissue centers around the fact that South Carolina and Connecticut handle breast cancer screening differently.  Recently the state of Connecticut enacted laws requiring insurance companies to provide screening ultrasound and/or MRI for those women who have dense breast tissue.  In Connecticut these additional screening tests are to be included in the patient’s screening test benefits and not subjected to any co-pays or out of pocket payments.  In addition, in Connecticut the patient is required to be informed of her breast tissue density and the additional screening tests  available to her (ultrasound, MRI).  However,  the state of South Carolina does not mandate the insurance companies to follow these protocols (or the patient to be informed about her breast density), therefore, you will likely be responsible for any co-pays and deductibles.  You should check with you current insurance carrier to determine how these additional tests will be covered.

 Hope this helps,

 Lisa

Have questions about breast reconstruction options? Submit them here and get answers straight from our surgical team!

 

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

The Lowcountry Tales of Dorothea Benton Frank

September 12, 2012 by
  • Dorothea-Benton-FrankWhat better way to welcome the new season in Charleston than through the tales of the New York Times’ bestselling author Dorothea Benton Frank?  With the Lowcountry at the heart of each novel, her words create the same cadence and wonder as the places that inspired her stories.

 Experience the wild beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and unforgettable characters of the Lowcountry, and the emotional honesty that has garnered Dorothea Benton Frank’s fiction national attention. Here’s a sneak peak at some of our favorites—be sure to snag a copy for yourself!

  • Lowcountry Summer: The much-anticipated sequel to Plantation follows Caroline Wimbley Levine as she returns to Tall Pines Plantation. After the death of her late mother, the Queen of Tall Pines, Caroline and the rest of the family are uncertain of who will take her place. Along the banks of the majestic Edisto River, new betrayals and secrets unfold, and a new generation takes the reins.
  • Folly Beach: Folly Beach is the shore of Cate Cooper’s childhood, and the place where her past still roams. After her husband’s death leaves her homeless and penniless, she returns to Folly Beach with the hope of building a new life from her old stomping grounds and becoming the women she was destined to be.
  • Sullivan’s Island: Born and raised on Sullivan’s Island, Susan Hayes’ brand of Southern sass has always helped her navigate troubled times. When faced with an unfaithful husband, a resentful teenage daughter, and painful memories, Susan finds she must seek her future by revisiting her past.
  • Shem Creek:  Meet Linda Breland, a single mother of two teenage daughters, who hopes to find a sweeter life in Mount
    Pleasant. There, she meets Brad Jackson, and soon, she is running his restaurant on Shem Creek. Taking on her responsibilities as a manager and single mother, Linda’s story is one of determination—and proof that second chances do exist.

Can’t get enough Dorothea Benton Frank? Check out her website for even more Lowcountry reads and the latest on her upcoming books: www.dotfrank.com

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , , , ,

Post Op Pearls Webinar: Share and Tell

September 10, 2012 by

Post Op Pearls panel members: Debbie, Chris, Kim Gail and Shirley

We couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of our second webinar titled,  Post-Op Pearls: Recovery, Healing, and Healthful Insights from Past Patients and Specialists, which happened on Thursday, August 28th. During the hour long webinar our panel, which included both past patients and specialists, shared information, personal tips and stories, and answered questions about breast reconstruction surgery. We’ve received an overwhelming amount of emails from women sharing their thoughts and feelings about this event and we’ve shared them with you below.

” The preparation and recovery tips were most helpful to me at this time since I am having surgery this November. I receive lots of information on reconstruction online, from you, FORCE, Johns Hopkins, and family members doing research or going through diagnoses/treatment.The only thing I do not have my head wrapped around yet is the multiple steps to completion.  I am only allowing myself to deal with step one right now.  I will figure the rest (nipple/no nipples, touch up procedures, etc) out later.

 THANK YOU ALL!”

” Just wanted to say how much my husband and I enjoyed the last webinar.  I liked hearing other patients comments on their recovery, it helps you know that your recovery is normal.  Thanks to all of you for all you do for us, the patients and our family. You make something that started out “bad” turn into a very pleasant experience.  I know that people here in Lexington get tired of hearing me talk about ya’ll but they have also been passing on my experience to their friends and have been recommending ya’ll to anyone they know that can benefit from the God given talent the Dr. Kline and Dr. Craigie share with their patients.

 Thanks again for everything “

” The topics that interest me the most are about the options available to those who do not have the option for DIEP reconstruction.  What are the remaining options, how many stages will it take to get to a finished “product”; what complications might happen; recovery assistance, return to work timeline, and so on. Initially, I got my reconstruction information from my breast cancer surgeon and then local plastic surgeons.  When I researched those options on the Internet I found there were more options available than what was locally available.  In my area, there are no plastic surgeons as well trained and as skilled as Dr. Kline and Dr. Craigie.  I have found the information provided by everyone at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction to be outstanding. The doctors and all of the staff are so willing to provide all the pros and cons of procedures and situations. They make recommendations that may or may not fit one’s situation but that information can be reviewed and let the individual make their own informed choice.  For me they have been the “light at the end of the tunnel. “

 I think the webinars are very helpful.  I only wish the person talking could be seen “live”.  The PowerPoint is helpful but would be so much more enhanced if one could see the actual speaker. I would like to learn more about the what is too much to expect from reconstruction surgery.  I was not eligible for a DIEP and had a I-GAP at one hospital and an S-GAP with Dr. Kline.  The S-GAP went so much better.  Now he is cleaning up all the mess from the I-GAP.  What type of breast volume, project, and shape is realistic under such circumstances?  I know each is unique to the individual, I’m throwing out this as a question on general terms. After bad experiences, I trolled the Internet to find doctors that could perform the type of reconstruction I wanted and needed.  I only found a couple of groups that fit my criteria. The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction fit my criteria.  What questions should a breast cancer patient list/ask and have answered when seeking someone to provide the most options for reconstruction? I love all of you.  

You are the best!!!  So is East Cooper Hospital!!!! “

Through webinars we are able to continue our mission to help hundreds of women understand their breast reconstruction options and make informed choices about the option that fits in their lives. Whether you joined us live, listened to the replay, or regrettably missed out, we encourage you to share feedback and let us know what aspects of breast reconstruction you want to know about so we can serve you better. We’re sure to be hosting another webinar in the near future so stay tuned, you don’t want to miss out!

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below or send our team an email today!

 

 

Filed Under: Upcoming Events Tagged With: , , , , ,

Can I Expect Tissue Problems After Radiation Therapy?

September 7, 2012 by

Tissue ProblemsThe below question is answered by Charleston breast surgeon Dr. James Craigie of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

What type of tissue problems should I expect after having radiation therapy post mastectomy and chemo? I have implants now, but will be having them removed and have a DIEP procedure. Thank you.

Hello,

If your implants will be removed then you should not expect problems with capsular contracture following radiation. Mainly these problems are related to your body’s rejection of the implant . The radiation will permanently affect the skin and others parts of your body that are treated with radiation. However when you recover from the radiation short term affects (usually 3-6months) you should be able to safely have a DIEP. Using your own tissue will give you the most natural permanent result without a high risk for problems due to radiation. When we know someone will need radiation following mastectomy this is our preferred method.

I hope this helps let me know if you have additional questions.

James Craigie, MD

Center For Natural Breast Reconstruction

Get answers to your questions about breast reconstruction straight from our surgical team! Submit your questions here today.

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , , ,
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